Every weekend I play tennis and also other sports when the opportunity arises. I'm far from being a great athlete, but it's more for fun and health.
Last year, I had a problem that prevented me from fully living this passion: a sprained left ankle. Fortunately, it did not show any rupture of ligaments, and I could get rid of quickly.
However, after this incident, I had repeated sprains. So I looked for a way to fix this problem once and for all to minimize the risk of injury.
I had a good counselor who explained to me the importance of an ankle brace in my situation. I decided to test the best ankle brace for tennis on the market.
Which are the best ankle braces for tennis?
After testing, I have finally come up with these 4 ankle braces, of which the Zenith lace-up ankle brace, which I think is the best ankle support for tennis.
Stable and light, it maintains the ankle well while keeping it perfectly mobile. And besides, it completely solved my sprain problem.
I would also like to help you recognize a good ankle support by telling you about the characteristics of each model in my selection.
You can use the Zenith ankle brace to protect yourself from shocks and ankle injuries while exercising.
It also helps you successfully rehabilitate your ankle victim of a sprained or not followed by a rupture of ligaments. It also offers better immobilization after surgery on your foot.
This brace maintains your entire ankle well if you adjust it correctly to your size using its laces and adjustable straps.
It fits both left and right ankle. This ankle support, made of polyester, is well ventilated. It lets the area cover sweat, but it wicks the sweat away, and your feet will always be dry and clean.
Due to this good breathability, the Zenith ankle support reduces the risk of irritation and is therefore suitable for sensitive skin.
I also like its lateral stabilizers positioned on its two sides. They make it easier to wear this accessory in the event of ankle injuries or joint pain.
It is a model that is very easy to put on and secure thanks to its auxiliary cross fastening strap and other straps. You have to place them around your feet, elbow up to the sole, and attach the Velcro straps.
Pros:
- Its protection against shocks, injuries, and ligament fractures;
- Its positive action on the ankle in rehabilitation;
- It's light and airy design;
- Its lateral stabilizers;
- Its auxiliary cross-protection strap;
- It's easy and secures wearing, ensuring good support of the entire ankle.
Cons:
- Less discreet model inside the shoes.
This Sleeve ankle brace guarantees joint support, whatever your physical activities: individual, team, combat, fitness, bodybuilding, hiking, trekking.
I find it very practical with its strapping band allowing it to be adapted to all ankle sizes. It just needs a good fit, and it conforms to the shape of your foot perfectly.
It is also a comfortable model due to its stability and breathability. Its cross fastening straps provide good ankle support, and its open heel does not restrict movement.
If you've recently had a sprained or ruptured ligament, you would love this supportive ankle support. It has the particularity of being at the same time thick, light and elastic, and it is endowed with a great capacity of maintaining the joint.
One-piece fits both left ankle and right ankle. I suggest you wear more giant shoes if you want to wear your Sleeve brace in them.
Pros:
- Its good support for the ankle joint;
- It's elastic and well-ventilated fabric;
- Its strapping band and its adjustment to any user: man, woman, or teenager;
- Its principle of open heel;
- Its protection against sprain and fracture of ligaments;
- Its port is suitable for various sports.
Cons:
- Too thick fabric requiring larger shoes.
I particularly recommend using this special immobilization ankle brace in the event of postoperative treatment following a sprain. This Mcdavid brace asserts itself by its remarkable ability to maintain the ankle joint.
If you have had a ligament rupture without surgery, this immobilization orthosis would also be your best ally to restore your ankle quickly.
I have a volleyball friend who suffered a fractured external malleolus after falling after a good smash.
Her ankle was not operated on, but she immobilized it with this Mcdavid ankle support during the rehabilitation period. And the recovery was made faster than expected.
This best ankle support for tennis has a standard size that will fit it for any adult user. It is effortless to use. You choose the direction of orientation of the plate under the sole according to the final positioning of the strip of velcro you are looking for.
Pros:
- Its easy use;
- Its secure and reliable joint support for the immobilization of the ankle;
- Its standard size does not require any adjustment;
- Its usefulness during the period of rehabilitation of the ankle after a malleolar rupture;
- Its beneficial action in case of sprain or ligament rupture with or without surgery.
Cons:
- Its setting options are a little limited.
- Its a less reliable fixing system.
This Aircast ankle brace would be the best ankle support for advanced tennis players. Its joint support is particularly beneficial during running competitive games..
When I tested it during intensive training, I noticed its positive action: it reduces tension in the joint and keeps the ankle stable.
This orthosis supports the ankle and relieves pain related to a sprain, strain, or plantar fasciitis, by warming the foot.
Its thin and light fabric makes it discreet if you put it on in your shoes. It is also possible to adjust the compression level for your comfort.
This ankle brace is also equipped with a hook-and-loop fastening strap which prevents it from slipping in the event of a great movement of the feet.
It also grants good perspiration and asserts itself by its rapid self-drying capacity after the evacuation of sweat.
I find it very practical and comfortable. However, its price does not fit all budgets, and it is less than other models in its category.
Pros :
- Its reliable and effective joint support;
- Its adjustable compression level;
- Its hook-and-loop fastening band;
- Its support for ankle stability during intense exercises;
- Its ability to relieve pain after sprains, strains, and other strains in the ankle;
- It's fine, light, and elastic fabric.
Cons:
- Expensive model.
Best Ankle Brace Support For Tennis: Everything You Need To Know
What is an ankle brace?
An ankle brace is a rigid object used to protect and immobilize a specific body part that needs it due to an accident. This can be due to fractures, sprain dislocation, and tendonitis.
Braces are a preventive or healing tool used to reduce pain and limit movement of the affected part so that it heals quickly.
Unlike casts, doctors can easily adjust them for inflammation.
The use of an ankle support is often urgent, reducing the pain associated with joint movement and preventing possible bone displacement.
Braces can be found in different shapes and sizes; it all depends on the area of the body affected. They can be as simple as gluing two fingers together and grow big enough to support your hips or thighs.
Remember that the ankle support easily adapts to different parts of the body. To give you examples, you can find braces for backs, arms, ankles, wrists, fingers, and of course, they come in different sizes and shapes.
Types of ankle braces
An ankle brace is an orthopedic device that immobilizes the affected body member.
It is used in the rehabilitation process to treat sprains, fractures, and other problems such as deformities.
Ankle support can be divided into ankle and foot braces.
Ankle brace
It is the simplest and the most widespread on the market. It is used for temporary problems in the ankle area such as first-degree injuries, correcting poor posture, treating sprains, and some fractures.
It adapts from the lower leg to the ankle, immobilizing only the areas mentioned.
Foot brace
It completely immobilizes the foot area and part of the leg. It is recommended that for more severe injuries or fractures, you should avoid all movement for rapid healing.
Like the ankle brace, it can help with minor issues except that it will not allow any movement.
Toe brace
It is used to immobilize the toes and reduce pain caused by bunions. Different models depending on the injury suffered and depending on the location of the finger.
Its function is to protect the fingers and prevent them from moving.
Caliper brace
Provides a rigid wrap that prevents medial-lateral movement of the ankle.
Its lateral reinforcements increase the stabilization capacity, it is adjusted from the sides with adjustable compression straps, and it has protections on the bony prominences.
They are indicated for more effective joint immobilization, ankle sprains, tibiotarsal joint instability, tendonitis, and postoperative.
How to choose an ankle brace for tennis?
To know what type of brace is correct, you must first consider the severity of their condition and seek their advice from your trusted doctor.
You can also make your purchase taking into account the following key points:
Good fit
The braces are equipped with straps and hooks. Ideally, you can fit it properly into your family member's foot and perform its function of immobilizing it.
Comfort
Make sure it is comfortable as it is essential, mainly if used for a long time; otherwise, it may cause more pain.
The type of brace
Depending on the condition your loved one has, you will need to choose between the simple or the fuller brace. Keep in mind that the foot support is much larger, and you may not need to immobilize the whole foot.
The material with which it is made
It can be fiberglass, plastic, or plaster. Usually, the doctor recommends the best option for the patient.
How to recognize the right ankle support for your situation?
The stabilizing ankle support firmly supports your ankle during rehabilitation after a sprain. If you have a malleolar injury or a recovering ligament, only use this model. Its design uniting a substantial part and foam is more suitable.
There is also an ankle brace for immobilization. As the name suggests, it is used to immobilize the ankle before and after surgery thoroughly.
But you can choose the level of compression that suits you. It is also effective in reducing edema.
When the ankle is well restored after a sprain and related treatment, it is still necessary to continue to protect it with ankle support for the resumption of sporting activity.
As for the protective ankle brace, it helps your ankle and Achilles tendon better to withstand the shocks of walking and your strenuous activities. You will also find ranges intended for great athletes.
How to correctly treat ankle pain using an ankle brace?
In the event of minor sprains or sprains without ligament rupture, you can put ice on the painful part.
And then, you put on an ankle brace made from a soft, elastic fabric. In this situation, wear your orthosis until the pain subsides completely.
In the event of a more severe sprain or followed by a ligament fracture, a more rigid brace is needed to adequately immobilize the ankle day and night for 4 to 6 weeks.
You should, at the same time, undergo local anti-inflammatory treatment and gradually carry out functional rehabilitation. Wearing the orthosis helps you get back to walking faster.
You can also take care of your plantar fasciitis using an ankle support instead of a cast. In this case, the orthosis is used to rest the fascia and support the foot's arch.
During the day, you can put on a lightweight brace that adjusts well to your shoe size. I suggest that you also put another support on your non-painful ankle to find balance in your legs. Choose stretch ankle braces that sit discreetly inside your shoes.
It is essential to wear your braces at night to stretch the plantar fascia and speed up recovery. When you wake up, you will feel less pain. You need to do calf exercises for rehabilitation from time to time.
There are models meant to be worn overnight. The length of time you wear ankle braces depends on your recovery. Your treatment can therefore extend up to 6 weeks.
How to use your ankle brace correctly?
When adjusting your ankle support to your ankle size, avoid over-tightening the bands. If your foot does not feel comfortable, not only will its movement be restricted, but blood circulation will be disturbed.
If you have an injury to your ankle, wear ankle support with side stabilizers to limit your pain. And if you have reactive skin, choose a model made from a thin, lightweight fabric that won't block the flow of sweat to your feet.
Do not leave a wet ankle support in contact with your foot. It would cool your ankle instead of warming it, and in this case, you will not benefit from its benefits.
It is always more advantageous to wear a pair of ankle braces to protect both your ankles at the same time and to have good leg stability.
If you plan to put them inside your shoes, choose a discreet and breathable model. I particularly recommend low and light sneakers if you wear your ankle brace frequently.
How to maintain an ankle support?
Maintaining an ankle brace is a bit tricky. First, I strongly advise against dry cleaning. The products are used to impact the elasticity of your protective accessory.
You should also avoid putting it in the drum of your washing machine. Only manual washing at a low temperature can clean it properly. I even suggest you use cold water to keep the quality of the fabric for a long time.
Also, check the ingredients of the detergent with which you wash your orthosis. Too vital components like acid or synthetic bleaches could destroy the fabric.
Choose a mild, natural soap as much as possible. Rinse your ankle brace well after washing it, and let it air dry naturally.
How to Wear an Ankle Brace With Speed Laces
Best Ankle Brace - FAQ
Are ankle braces beneficial?
Foot and ankle braces and support may aid in the prevention of foot and ankle injuries. Wearing an ankle brace may also assist in easing the discomfort and symptoms of chronic foot and ankle issues.
Wearing an ankle brace if you are at risk of developing foot or ankle issues may assist in preventing these problems from arising. Choose a brace that fits well and offers enough support. Speak with a foot expert if you have any queries.
How long can I keep my ankle brace on?
After an ankle sprain, your doctor may advise you to wear a brace during activities for up to 12 months.
Is it OK to wear an ankle brace all day?
If you have a serious ankle sprain, your doctor or physiotherapist may urge you to wear your brace around the clock for the first several weeks. Ankle braces only need to be worn while doing activities that are prone to twisting or rolling the ankle.
Can I walk while wearing an ankle brace?
With an ankle splint, you may be able to walk, but only sometimes straight soon. Sprains, fractures, and dislocations, for example, frequently need time to heal before weight-bearing. Walking or carrying weight too soon may impede recovery or cause more harm.
What are the drawbacks of ankle braces?
Wearing an ankle brace might lead to dependency. Wearing an ankle brace for an extended period might lead to a dependence on it rather than the natural strength of the ankle. After an accident, if your young athlete merely wears an ankle brace and does not get therapy, the ankle may stay weak even after healing.
Conclusion
The best ankle braces for tennis should be able to provide optimal support for your ankle without hindering it in its movements. Its fabric must be flexible, light, and breathable.
For me, the best model is still the Zenith lace-up ankle brace because of its well-thought-out design and side stabilizers.
It is with this model that I was able to free myself from my repeated sprains. You might as well use it if you have the same problem.
But in case of immobilization of the ankle, I suggest that you move quickly in your rehabilitation exercises in the muscles and ligaments.
Long-term immobilization is detrimental to the joint, is designed to move.
There are also other types of braces in case your joint or ligament problem is located in another part of your body, including the wrist, knee, and shoulder.
The finger brace is also available in the market; it is more useful in sports that use a ball.